Is becoming a flight dispatcher right for me?
The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:
Still unsure if becoming a flight dispatcher is the right career path? Take the free CareerExplorer career test to find out if this career is right for you. Perhaps you are well-suited to become a flight dispatcher or another similar career!
Described by our users as being “shockingly accurate”, you might discover careers you haven’t thought of before.
How to become a Flight Dispatcher
Becoming a flight dispatcher involves several steps to gain the necessary skills and certification for the role.
- Complete the Required Education: You will need at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Many employers prefer candidates who have completed additional education, such as an aviation certificate or associate degree. Some programs offer specific flight dispatcher training.
- Get Certified: To work as a flight dispatcher, you must be certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Certification requires completing an FAA-approved training program that covers flight planning, aviation regulations, weather conditions, and air traffic control procedures.
- Gain Experience: While not always required, gaining experience in related aviation roles, such as ground operations or air traffic control, can help you build important skills like communication, problem-solving, and multitasking.
- Apply for Jobs: Once certified, you can apply for flight dispatcher positions at airlines, airports, or other aviation companies. Entry-level positions allow you to gain hands-on experience, and you can advance to more senior roles as you gain expertise.